Bell 407 vs Robinson R88
The Bell 407 and the Robinson R88 are very different aircraft: the 407 is a proven, in- production single-turbine seating 7 with a 30-year operating record; the R88 is Robinson's upcoming 8-seat single-turbine, projected for first deliveries in 2027-2028 and not yet flying commercially.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Bell 407 | Robinson R88 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $2,000,000 – $4,700,000 | — |
| Category | Single Turbine Helicopter | Single Turbine Helicopter |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 7 | — |
| Horsepower | 675 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 133 kts (246 km/h) | — |
| Range | 330 nm (611 km) | — |
| Service Ceiling | 18,500 ft (5,639 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 5,250 lbs (2,381 kg) | — |
| Useful Load | 2,347 lbs (1,065 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 131.0 gal (496 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 40.0 GPH (151 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 3,500 hrs | — |
| Overhaul Cost | $350,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $100,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $550 | — |
| Engines | 1 x Turboshaft | — |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateBell 407
Fuel$220/hr
Variable$550/hr
Annual Fixed$100,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$210,000/yr
Robinson R88
Which Should You Buy: Bell 407 or Robinson R88?
Bottom line: Choose the Bell 407 if you want a turbine helicopter you can buy and operate today, with a vast support network. Consider the R88 only if you specifically want Robinson's larger turbine and are willing to wait for production — and accept the unknowns of a new platform vs a proven one.
Pick the 407 if…
- More inventory — 43 listings vs 3.
Pick the R88 if…
- Newer design — production from 2027 vs 1996.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Bell 407 or Robinson R88?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 407 cruises at 133 kts with 330 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Bell 407: from $3,350,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bell 407 and Robinson R88?
407 engine: Rolls-Royce 250-C47B (675 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
407: about $550/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
407: 7 seats / 2,347 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
407: 3,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$350,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data